Handcrafted Vase from Arita – A Masterpiece of Yōhen Art

This extraordinary piece of ceramic artistry was created in 1972 in Arita – one of Japan’s most traditional porcelain regions. The artist, Kusuo Baba, who is highly respected among connoisseurs, has already retired – making this work a particularly valuable and unique collector’s item.

At the heart of this creation lies the fascinating Yōhen technique: during the firing process, unexpected gradients and patterns emerge through the chemical reaction between the glaze and the flame – making each piece an absolute one-of-a-kind. Characteristic features include the fine white rim at the top of the vase and the deep, glowing cinnabar-red glaze.

This intense red coloration arises when copper in the glaze reacts with the reducing atmosphere in the kiln. The result is a spectacular play of colors – ranging from delicate ruby red to dark, almost mystical crimson. It is said that this red resembles that of rare ruby gemstones – an effect only achievable through the highest-quality materials and a precisely controlled firing process at 1300 °C.

This vase captivates with a gentle color gradient from deep dark red to radiant light red. Turquoise and blue accents adorn the upper rim, giving the vessel a refreshing lightness. The combination of warm and cool tones creates a harmonious balance that feels both powerful and subtle.

From Arita (Saga Prefecture)

Arita is located in the western part of Saga Prefecture (Kyūshū), near the border with Nagasaki Prefecture.
Covering an area of about 65 km², approximately 70% of the region consists of forested hills and mountains. The Arita River flows through the town and eventually empties into the sea near Imari.